The store is owned by Step-by-Step, an organization that provides meals, advocacy, self-help services and transporation for people with mental diagnoses ages 18 or older. The non-profit organization serves 40 to 50 people in the Ogdensburg-area each day.

We realized there was a need for secondhand store, when we discovered some people are having trouble getting on their feet, said Skye M. Sharp, office assistant at Step-by-Step. The way the economy is, people cant afford $5 or $6,000 to furnish their home.

The store will also provide vocational training experience for Step-by-Step members.

There is a stigma surrounding people with mental health diagnoses, said Ms. Sharp. This is another good way we can get the community involved with our organization through something that is needed in our area.

The store will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

The store is packed full right now, but the organizations will still accept donations for pick-up or drop off, Ms. Sharp said.

The group will also be holding a craft fair in the Step-by-Step offices during the grand opening. Refreshments will be served and door prizes will be given away.

Were still looking for vendors, said Ms. Sharp.

For more information, contact Ms. Sharp at 394-0597.

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